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Ask an expert advisor

Meet Alpine's fully-loaded receiver

If you're looking for a do-it-all car stereo or have eyes on building a system, Alpine's CDE-HD138BT CD receiver packs a serious punch. You'll get features like an HD Radio® tuner, built-in Bluetooth®, and Pandora® Internet radio control. Alpine's legendary sound quality rounds out the package, along with plenty of audio adjustments.

Built-in HD Radio™ with iTunes® tagging

Alpine's HD Radio tuner lets you tune in digital AM/FM broadcasts, significantly pumping up the sound quality. Participating FM stations sound about as good as a CD, while AM stations sound like traditional FM. Plus while your iPod®'s connected and you've got an HD Radio station tuned in, you can "tag" songs you like for later purchase from the iTunes® store.

Bluetooth: it's not just for calling hands free

You may already know that Bluetooth offers a hands-free calling solution while you're on the road. That's still true, but now it gives you a whole lot more. If your phone or another device supports Bluetooth music streaming, you can beam your tunes and control playback with the CDE-HD138BT. You won't get full control this way, but you can perform some basic functions like track up and track down. Best of all, no wires are needed.

But of course, you can still talk hands-free, and Alpine helps make sure you and your callers can understand each other. First, you can mount the included microphone in a good spot in front of you so it'll have no problem picking up your voice. Next, the receiver lets you adjust the mic's gain to best match your speaking voice. You can also tweak the phone output and ring volume, so you won't go diving for the volume knob every time someone calls. And, last of all, this Alpine downloads up to a thousand names from your phonebook, and allows you to search by alphabet to find the number you want.

Put Pandora® in your dash

Alpine gives you Pandora right where you want it — in your dash. You can change stations, skip tracks, and rate songs just like you do online. Your smartphone and a free Pandora app are the key. Android™ and BlackBerry® users get full control through the Bluetooth® connection, while iPhone® lovers get basic control (play, pause, track up) over USB. connection.

Add satellite radio

Satellite radio lovers, you're in luck — the CDE-HD138BT works with SiriusXM's SXV200 tuner, which lets you dial in your favorite programming plus get some cool features. You can pause and rewind live programming, get game and music alerts, and even tag songs you like while your iPod's connected.

Want to keep your steering wheel controls?

In most vehicles, you can use an adapter to connect your vehicle's steering wheel controls to this Alpine stereo. Connect a few wires, then program the adapter for your particular car and the CDE-HD138BT, and you'll retain the convenience of your steering wheel controls. Check the "Accessories" tab for compatible adapters.

Other features and specs:

Why replace your factory radio?

Two good reasons - sound quality and cool features. A new car stereo offers power that's superior to most factory radios, along with more sophisticated tone controls. And most car stereos offer built-in or optional features that add safety and fun to life in your car, including inputs for your iPod or MP3 player, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free cell phone calls, satellite radio or HD Radio reception, and connections for building an audio system in your car.

Product Research

HD Radio + SiriusXM Ready

HD Radio: With the built-in HD Radio tuner, you can receive
digital AM/FM broadcasts from local stations where available. HD Radio lets you
listen to the radio with the same fidelity as your digital music. HD Radio
features high quality audio, FM multi-casting, and data services. With HD Radio,
your FM stations offer near CD-quality sound, AM stations provide FM-like sound,
and there is crystal-clear reception with no audio distortion. Best of all, HD
Radio is 100% subscription free. HD Radio is the system for digital AM and FM
broadcasting in the U.S. More than 2,000 radio stations are broadcasting
their primary signals in digital HD Radio technology, as a free service. Go
to HDRadio.com to
check for HD Radio stations in your area. The unit's tuner also supports analog AM/FM
broadcasts.

Station Text: AM/FM digital stations can offer text and data
such as artist names and song titles. The built-in HD Radio tuner displays song
title, artist and station information on the display of the Alpine CDE-HD138BT.

Multicasting: Multicasting is the ability to broadcast
multiple program streams over a single AM/FM frequency. this increases the
amount and diversity of content choices. A maximum of eight multicast station
channels (HD1-HD8) can be selected on this unit.

iTunes Tagging: It is possible to save the song's
information (tag) from and HD Radio broadcasting station to your USB-direct
connected iPod/iPhone. The songs will show up in a playlist called "Tagged" in
iTunes the next time you sync your iPod/iPhone. Then you can directly buy the
songs you want from the iTunes Music Store. You can "tag" up to 50 songs.

Note: Your iPod/iPhone must have at least 50MB of free
space to "tag" and transfer songs. iTunes 7.4 or later is required to
purchase "tagged" songs.

Local/Distance Tuning: Local seek tuning lets you tune
in only those radio stations with sufficiently strong signals for good
reception. Distance seek tuning allows both strong and weak stations to be
tuned.

Frequency Search: You can search for a radio station by its
frequency, using the head unit's rotary encoder.

Listening Modes: The head unit provides four reception
methods in order to receive Digital & Analog AM/FM signals according to your own
preference and signal strength.

Hybrid: Receives both digital and analog stations. If
the digital signal is weak, this mode will switch to receive the analog
radio signal automatically.

Digital: Receives only digital radio signals, even when
the digital signal is weak.

Digital MC: Receives the digital radio signal while
listening to a sub-program service of a multicast station.

Analog: Only receives the analog radio signal, even
when the digital signal is strong.

Live Mode: While receiving a live AM/FM broadcast, you can
select an optimized receiving method according to your own preference and the
signal strength.

Analog: While receiving a live broadcast, this unit
will only receive the analog radio signal even when the digital signal can
be received.

Digital: While receiving a live broadcast, this unit
will keep receiving the digital radio signal even when the digital signal is
week.

Listen: While receiving a live broadcast, this unit
will use one of the Listening Modes (Hybrid, Digital, Digital MC, or
Analog).

FM Tone Quality: You can set your preferred tonal quality,
when listening to FM analog radio stations. You can choose between HiFi
(high-quality sound), Normal (standard setting), or Stable (noise control).

SiriusXM Ready: The Alpine CDE-HD138BT comes ready for SiriusXM
programming with access to XM and Sirius Satellite Radio stations. Thanks to its
proprietary SiriusXM Connect port, you can add the optional
SXV200V1 SiriusXM Connect tuner and receive more than 150 channels of
exclusive programming directly from SiriusXM, via the "SiriusXM
All Access" package (subscription required). Visit
SiriusXM.com
for a complete list of subscription options and channel guide. Additional features
of the SXV200 SiriusXM Connect tuner include:

Text Display: Text information, such as the channel
name, artist name, feature and song/program title is displayed on the
in-dash receiver.

Search Function: You can search for SiriusXM
programming content by Category or by Channel.

SiriusXM Presets: Feature 3 Satellite Radio preset
bands. You can store 6 SiriusXM stations to each preset band (a total of
18).

Jump Recall: You can save your absolute favorite radio
station and access it with the press of a single button for easy recall.

Instant Replay: Supports the SiriusXM Instant Replay
function, so you can pause, rewind, and replay up to 30 minutes of live
content. Listen to your favorite programming over again.

Game Alert: GameAlert will display an on-screen message
if your favorite teams' games are being broadcast. Jump to that station with
the push of a button so you can listen to the game play by play. You can
also get the latest score updates while you are listening to other stations.

Song/Artist Alert: With Song/Artist Alert you can get
notified when your favorite songs or artists are being broadcast on any
SiriusXM station. With the push of a button, you can jump right to that
broadcast and catch the songs you want to listen to.

iTunes Tagging: The iTunes Tagging feature lets you Tag
songs (up to 50) you hear on SiriusXM and stores the info on your iPod/iPhone. The next
time you connect your iPod/iPhone to iTunes, you will be able to preview
your selections and then purchase and download them directly from iTunes.

Parental Lock: This function restricts the listening of channels
for children of certain age levels and is protected by a 4-digit
"lock-code".

Note: SiriusXM Satellite Radio operates on XM Network.
If you already have a Sirius Satellite Radio subscription, this radio can
not be added as a discounted second unit. If you have an existing XM
Satellite Radio subscription, you can add this unit as a discounted second
unit.

Built-in Bluetooth

Bluetooth Technology (powered by Parrot): The Alpine
CDE-HD138BT features built-in Bluetooth technology (v3.0), powered by Parrot. Parrot is
the global leader in wireless devices for mobile phones, for expanded
compatibility for many Bluetooth wireless technology enabled cell phones. The
head unit's built-in Bluetooth allows you to make and receive phone calls
wirelessly through the receiver; as well as stream music wirelessly from your
smartphone to the head unit.

Bluetooth Profiles: In order to use Bluetooth wireless
technology, your phone must also be Bluetooth compatible and be able to
interpret certain profiles. This unit is compatible with the following Bluetooth
Profiles:

Pairing: The Alpine CDE-HD138BT can be paired to up to five
Bluetooth enabled mobile devices (only one device can be used at a time). Due to the differences in Bluetooth technology,
some Bluetooth enabled devices may be incompatible, function improperly, or
may not support all features when used with the Alpine CDE-HD138BT. Parrot
software updates provide support for future phones.

External Microphone with Noise Cancellation: The included
external microphone (with visor-clip) allows you to speak to the other party on
the telephone call hands-free, while the other party's voice is played through
your car stereo speakers. The external microphone is tuned and engineered to
reduce noise interference and feedback. This allows optimal placement in your
car, for the best possible sound quality. You can adjust the microphone's volume
level; and even mute the microphone, so your voice will
not be heard by the caller. The external microphone measures 0.5625" (diameter)
x 1.625" (deep); and features an attached 13' cable terminated by a right-angle
male 3.5mm connector.

Receiving Calls: The Alpine CDE-HD138BT provides a couple ways
to answer your phone calls without picking up your mobile phone. Incoming calls
are announced by a caller ring tone through your vehicle's speakers (music will
be muted) & a Caller ID message across your Alpine head unit's display.

Automatic Answer: Set the Alpine head unit to answer
the incoming call automatically; when a call is received, it is answered
automatically after approximately 5 seconds.

Call Waiting: If a second call is received during a current call,
you can have the first caller wait momentarily while you take the second
call. When you are finished with one call, you can switch to the other.

Placing Calls: The Alpine CDE-HD138BT provides a variety of
functions for placing a phone call without using your mobile phone. The Alpine
CDE-HD138BT features full phone book access, call history, voice tag dialing, and
redial with compatible phones.

Voice Dialing: If you have a voice-dial capable phone,
you can dial a phone contact by simply speaking the name of your contact.

Phonebook (with ABC search): Up to 1,000 entries (5
telephone numbers for each name) can be downloaded from your compatible
mobile phone. You can select the first 3 call letters (ABC) to search for a
desired name in your phonebook.

Preset Dialing: You can assign phone numbers that you dial
frequently to presets (1-6) for quick recall. You can assign up to six
frequently called phone numbers. A total of 18 phone numbers can be stored
in the preset memory (6 numbers for each mobile phone paired).

Call History: The 80 previously dialed, received, or
missed numbers can be retrieved and dialed from memory.

Call Switch: This function allows you to initiate the transfer of
audio between your mobile phone and your car's speakers.

Text Message Alert: The CDE-HD138BT can give you a notification on the
display with a blinking mail icon indicator for 30 seconds while receiving a
text message on your Bluetooth-enabled phone. The mail icon indicator will
remain on if there is an unread message on a connected mobile phone. You must
still read or create a text message from your mobile smartphone.

Audio Streaming: The Alpine CDE-HD138BT can stream music from you
Bluetooth A2DP/AVRCP mobile device. Not only can it control &
stream your music through Bluetooth, it can process your music using its
built-in DSP Sound Expansion to ensure you get the best sound. Basic playback
functions include - Play, Pause, & Skip (Previous/Next). The head unit will
also display your stored music's song information; such as Artist name &
Song/Album title. The CDE-HD138BT also supports audio streaming of music apps on
your Bluetooth-enabled smartphone, but without control or metadata. You will
continue to use your Bluetooth enabled smartphone to view and control streaming
music apps. When an incoming call or outgoing call is in
progress from your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone, audio streaming will be
paused so you can take your call. Once the call is finished, your streaming
music will resume.

Bluetooth Sound Quality Adjustments: You can customize the sound of
your Bluetooth hands-free experience to fit your own preferences. You can adjust the
CDE-HD138BT's mic gain, phone output, & ring tone volume. If that's not enough,
there are 5 sound quality settings to choose from to get the balance just right
for you. This flexibility will make your phone calls a pleasurable experience.

Volume Adjustments: You can emphasize or weaken the volume level
of phone call, the ring tone, and the microphone input to fit your own
preference. The Phone Talk Level, Ring Tone, & Mic Gain are all adjustable
between -5 to + 5 dB.

Speaker Output: You can select which car speaker outputs the
audio from your Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone/device.

All: The audio will be output from all of the speakers
in the car

F-L: The sound is only output from the front left
speaker.

F-R: The sound is only output from the front right
speaker.

F-LR: The sound is output from the front left and front
right speakers.

Pandora App Control

Pandora Internet Radio for your Android or BlackBerry:
Pandora is the leading Internet Radio music service in the United States, giving
people music they love anytime, anywhere, through personalized radio stations.
The Alpine CDE-HD138BT CD receiver lets you playback and control the Pandora
Internet Radio music service that is being streamed to your Android or
BlackBerry smartphone. Your Android or BlackBerry smartphone will need an active
Data Plan account with connection to the Internet via 3G, EDGE, or WiFi. In
addition, you will need an active Pandora
music service account.

Pandora via Bluetooth: The Alpine CDE-HD138BT lets you
playback and control Pandora Internet Radio streamed from your Android or
BlackBerry smartphone, via Bluetooth (no hard-wired connection required). To
access Pandora from the Alpine head unit, your Bluetooth-enabled Android or
BlackBerry smartphone must have the latest version of the Pandora App from the
Android Market or the
BlackBerry App World. Your Android or BlackBerry smartphone must
support A2DP, AVRCP, and SPP Bluetooth profiles. Pandora control via
USB-connection is not available for Android or BlackBerry.

Note: Access to the Pandora service will depend on the
availability of a cellular and/or WiFi network for purposes of allowing your
iPhone or smartphone to connect to the Internet. Pandora is not supported in
Canada and only available in the United States.

Pandora Control: The Alpine CDE-HD138BT will provide control
over the Pandora music service streamed to your Bluetooth-enabled Android or
BlackBerry smartphone.

Station List: You can select Pandora stations from your
Station List by date or alphabetically (A-Z).

New Station: Based on a currently playing track or
artist, you can create a new station and save it to your Pandora account.

QuickMix: QuickMix allows you to listen to songs played
on one or more Pandora stations in your Station List randomly. You will need
to edit your QuickMix station selections on the phone before connection.

Skip Songs: You can skip song tracks within a station.
You cannot skip back to a previous song. Pandora limits the number of skips
allowed.

Thumbs Up/Down: You can give songs a thumbs up or
thumbs down to help Pandora personalize stations to suit your preferences.

Bookmarking: The song or artist currently being played
can be bookmarked & stored in your Pandora account.

Information Display: The Alpine CDE-HD138BT will display
Artist, Album, & Song information provided by the Pandora app on your Android or
BlackBerry smartphone.

USB/iPod/Aux Connectivity

Front-Panel USB Port: The Alpine CDE-HD138BT features a
front-panel USB (type-A) port, so you may connect a USB mass storage class
memory device to this head unit. Your connected USB memory device may contain
MP3 (8-320 kbps), WMA (32-192 kbps), or AAC (16-320 kbps) music files formatted
in FAT 12/16/32. This unit will recognized up to 100 folders and 100 files per
folder. ID3 tags (v1, v2) and WMA tags are supported; track title, artist name,
and album name ID3/WMA tag data can be displayed. The head unit will play back
files on a USB memory devices with the same controls and modes as playback of
CDs containing MP3, WMA, and AAC audio files. USB portable audio players that can be
charged via USB will be charged when plugged into the CD receiver's USB port
(max. 1A),
and the vehicle's ignition switch is set to ACC or On.

Note: You can only play back non-copy protected
MP3/WMA/AAC files.

iPod/iPhone Direct Connection: You can connect your iPod or
iPhone to the head unit's front-panel USB port using the Alpine KCU-445i
iPod/iPhone cable (500KCU445i,
sold separately) or the iPod dock-connector cable which came with your
iPod/iPhone to get access to all of your iPod/iPhone's stored music, right from
the head unit. If you have an iPod nano (7th gen), iPod touch (5th gen), or
iPhone 5; use the Lighting-to-USB cable that came with your Apple device to
connect to the head unit. The Alpine CDE-HD138BT offers audio playback, music navigation,
information display, & charging of select iPod/iPhone models.

iPod/iPhone Audio Playback (with DAC bypass): The Alpine
CDE-HD138BT supports audio playback of music, podcast, and audiobook files stored on
your iPod or iPhone; as well as music apps streamed to your iPod/iPhone. The USB
connection allows your iPod/iPhone's large music
libraries to be loaded instantly to the Alpine head unit and sound quality to be
maximized through the head unit's 1-bit D/A converter (bypassing iPod/iPhone
DAC), allowing for a Signal to Noise ratio up to 105dB.

iPod/iPhone Control: Once your iPod/iPhone is connected, you
get convenient control of your iPod/iPhone's music library from the head unit.
You can also choose to control your iPod/iPhone from its clickwheel or touchscreen.

Head Unit: The Alpine CDE-HD138BT lets you navigate
your iPod/iPhone's music library by Playlist, Artist, Album, Song, Genre, Composer, Podcast,
or Audiobook. You can then search
each category alphabetically (A-Z). For
especially big music libraries, the Percentage Search function uses the
head unit's preset buttons for quick jumps to specific parts of the a Category (Preset 1: 0%
to 16%, Preset 2: 17% to 32%, Preset 3: 33% to 49%, Preset 4: 50% to 66%,
Preset 5: 67% to 82%, Preset 6: 83% to 100% of the song library). The head unit
also offers three Shuffle playback functions (All/Album/Category) and Repeat
playback function (song).

iPod Passenger Control: In iPod Passenger Control mode,
you can navigate the stored music on your iPod/iPhone from its clickwheel or
touchscreen. You can also listen to your favorite music apps (such asPandora,
iHeartRadio,
SiriusXM,
Last.fm,
Rhapsody, &
Slacker) from your iPhone (iOS 3.0+) through the Alpine head unit
and your vehicle's speakers, while controlling basic play back functions
(such as Play/Pause & Previous/Next). You will continue to use your iPhone's
touchscreen to navigate advance functions of your musicapps. Not all apps
will be compatible.

Note: Access to your iPhone's downloaded applications
will depend on the availability of a cellular and/or WiFi network for
purposes of allowing your iPhone to connect to the Internet.

iPod/iPhone Display: The Alpine CDE-HD138BT will display
your iPod/iPhone's stored music file information in Head Unit or iPod Passenger
Control mode. The head unit will display Track number, Elapsed playing time,
Artist name, Song title, & Album label. The unit will not display music app
information.

iPod Charging: The head unit's USB connection provides 1A
of current to power and charge your connected iPod/iPhone when your vehicle's
ignition switch is set to the 'ACC' or 'On' position. This unit does not charge
the iPad. If your iPod/iPhone has no initial battery charge,
then the unit will not recognize it.

iPod/iPhone Compatibility Chart: The Alpine CDE-HD138BT is "Made
for iPod/iPhone" compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone model
features (as of 9/27/2012):

Apple Device

Generation

Tested Version

Media Type

Control Type

Display Type

iTunes Tagging

Charge

Audio

Video

Head Unit

iPod/iPhone

Artist/Song Text

Track Info

iPhone

2G

3.1.3

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

3G

4.2.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

3GS

5.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

4

6.0

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

4S

6.0

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

5

6.0

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

touch

1st

2.2.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

2nd

4.2.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

3rd

5.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

4th

6.0

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

5th

6.0

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

nano

1st

1.3.1

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

2nd

1.1.3

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

3rd

1.1.3

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

4th

1.0.4

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

5th

1.0.2

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

6th

1.1 PC

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

7th

1.2

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

classic

80GB

1.1.2

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

120GB

2.0.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

160GB

2.0.4

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

video

5th

1.3

Y

N

Y

N

Y

Y

N

Y

iPad

1

5.1.1

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

2

6.0

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

3

6.0

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Note: Apple iPod/iPhone software updates may change
functionality results. If you download a newer software version, you may
need to reset the head unit and your iPod/iPhone to regain functionality. If
this doesn't work, you may need to wait until a newer software update is
available.

Auxiliary Input: The unit is equipped with front-panel
minijack (3.5mm) auxiliary input. You can input audio from an auxiliary source
unit; such as a portable MP3 player. You can turn the Auxiliary Input on or off.
In addition, you can change the name on the display to
match the type of device connected to the front-panel input; Auxiliary, TV, DVD,
Portable, or Game.

Disc Playback

Disc Compatibility: The unit features a single disc player
that will playback CD-Audio, CD-Text, and finalized CD-R/CD-RW audio discs.

MP3/WMA/AAC Playback: This unit can play CD-R, and CD-RW
discs containing MP3, WMA, and AAC files recorded using the ISO 9660 Level 1 or
Level 2 formats. MP3 files with bit rates from 8 kbps to 320 kbps, WMA files
with bit rates from 48 kbps to 192 kbps, and AAC files with bit rates from 16
kbps to 320 kbps are supported. Up to a maximum of 255 folders and 510
files/folders can be read from one disc. ID3 tags v1 and v2, and WMA tags are
supported; track title, artist name, and album name ID3 tag data can be
displayed.

Text/File/Folder Quick Search: When you are playing a disc
with CD Text or ID3/WMA/AAC tags, you can easily search for a track, file, or folder by
its title. Once you have activated the search mode, you can use the rotary
encoder to quickly scan through the titles to locate the desired track. For
discs without CD Text or ID3/WMA/AAC tags, searches are made using the track numbers
associated with each song.

Audio Section

CEA-2006 Compliant: The specifications given by Alpine for
the built-in amplifier comply with the CEA-2006 mobile amplifier power testing
and measurement standards from the CEA (Consumer Electronics Association). All
manufacturers who comply with the standard can display the CEA-2006 logo on
their product.

6ch/4V Preouts: The CDE-HD138BT has three sets of 4-Volt
RCA pre-outs (Front/Rear/Sub) for connection of external amplifiers. The unit's front and rear
preamp output can be faded (front/rear), while the subwoofer preamp output is
non-fading.

Note: When an external amplifier is connected sound
quality can be improved by stopping the power supply of the built-in
amplifier.

Subwoofer Control: When the non-fading subwoofer preamp
output is activated, you can adjust the subwoofer's volume, low-pass filter, &
phase.

Volume: There are two volume (system) modes for the
unit's subwoofer output.

System 1: Subwoofer level changes according to the
main volume setting.

System 2: Subwoofer level change is different from
the main volume setting (0-15); even at low volume settings, the
subwoofer is still audible.

Low Pass Filter: The unit's subwoofer output low-pass
filter can be set to 60Hz, 80Hz, 120Hz, 160Hz, or Off (through).

Subwoofer Phase: The subwoofer output phase can be set to Normal
(0°) or Reverse (180°).

High Pass Filter: The Alpine head unit is equipped with a
high-pass filter for its speaker-level output and front-channel preamp output
(when activated). You can set the unit's high-pass filter to 60Hz, 80Hz, 120Hz,
160Hz, or Off (through).

Equalizer: The CDE-HD138BT makes all of your music sound great with
its extensive tuning capabilities. Choose from a 5-band parametric or 7-band
graphic equalizer, to get the best from your car audio sound system. You can
modify the EQ settings to create a response curve more appealing to your
personal taste.

Center Frequencies: You can select from the following center
frequencies for each band; Band 1 (63Hz/80Hz/100Hz/200Hz), Band 2
(160Hz/250Hz/400Hz/630Hz/1.0kHz), Band 3
(630Hz/1.0Hz/1.6kHz/2.5kHz/4.0kHz), Band 4
(1.6kHz/2.5kHz/4kHz/6.3kHz/10.0kHz), Band 5
(10.0kHz/1.25kHz/16.0kHz/17.5kHz).

Bandwidth (Width Q): You can change the boosted bandwidth
between Wide 1, Medium 2/3, or Narrow 4. A wider setting will boost a
wide range of frequencies above and below the center frequency; while a
narrower setting will boost only frequencies near the center frequency.

Level: Each center frequency can be set to a desired level,
between -6 to +6 dB.

7-Band Graphic EQ: The 7-band graphic EQ is simpler to set up and
use.

Bands 1-7: Band 1 (80Hz), Band 2 (250Hz), Band 3 (500Hz),
Band 4 (1.0kHz), Band 5 (4.0kHz), Band 6 (8.0kHz), Band 7 (16.0kHz).

Level: Each band (1-7) can be set to a desired level, between
-6 to +6 dB.

Note: You can store a combined 6 EQ presets for the 5-band and
7-band EQ.

Media Xpander Pro: Alpine's exclusive Media Xpander Pro is engineered
to bring out the musical details lost in compressed media, and it is adjustable
per source to get the most out of your digital audio media. The Media Expander
Pro makes vocals or instruments sound distinct regardless of the music source.
The FM radio, CD, USB memory, and iPhone/iPod will be able to reproduce the
music more clearly even in vehicles with a lot of road noise.

Source Volume Level: The output level (+/-5dB) of each source can be
individually adjusted. For example, if the Tuner level sounds lower than CD, its
output can be adjusted without affecting the other sources.

Interrupt Feature: When a device having the interrupt
feature (such as a cellular telephone) is connected to the receiver, the audio
signal will be automatically muted whenever the interrupt signal is received
from the device. The supplied wiring harness contains a pink/black Interrupt
lead that needs to be connected to the device's interrupt signal connection.

Display Features

Detachable Face: The unit features a single front loading CD
face that detaches from the chassis to deter theft. The CD player comes supplied
with a hard plastic face case to protect the detachable face when you have it
off the chassis. A face-fixing screw is supplied for making the face
non-detachable, if desired. An optional soft face case (142DFC1X,
sold separately) can also be purchased for this unit.

Text Display: Text information, such as the disc name and
the track name, will be displayed if playing a CD text compatible disc. It is
also possible to display the folder name, the file name,& the tag
information, while playing a MP3/WMA/AAC disc or USB memory device.

Text Scroll: This unit can scroll the disc & track names
recorded on CD-Text disc, as well as the text information of MP3 files, folder
names, and tags. There are two Text Scroll settings.

Auto: The CD text information, the information of
folder and file names, and the tags are scrolled automatically.

Manual: The display is scrolled when a disc is loaded
or when a track is changed.

Auto Dimmer: This unit is equipped with an illumination
lead; when the unit's dimmer mode is set to Auto and the illumination lead is
connected to your vehicle's headlight circuit, the display and button
illumination will dim to a fixed, preset level whenever the headlights are
turned on. If preferred, you may choose the Manual dimmer mode setting, so the
display and button illumination is dim at all times.

Demo Mode: This unit has a demonstration feature for its
display which can be turned On or Off in the menu.

Remote Control

Steering Wheel Remote Compatibility: The unit also features
an OEM steering wheel remote control input on the rear of the unit that lets you
keep your vehicle's factory radio steering wheel remote controls when used with
the optional PAC SWI-RC Steering Wheel Control Interface Adapter (541SWIRC,
sold separately); or the optional Metra ASWC Steering Wheel Control Interface
Adapter (120ASWC,
sold separately).

Optional Wireless Remote: The Alpine CDE-HD138BT is wireless remote
control ready. Simply add on the Alpine RUE-4202 IR remote (500RUE4202,
sold separately) to make it even easier to control the head unit's functions.

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Update from previous review

Written By Rod-Man, Bossier City, LA on Thursday, July 17, 2014

"Coolness Factor"

Build Quality

Ease of Use

Sound Quality

Value

It has been a year since my review, and an update is in order. With a new phone and upgraded Bluetooth 4.0, this radio now earns 5 stars. The known bluetooth bug was inherent in the Android 2.3 platform, but is no longer a concern with my new phone, an LG F6 equipped with JB 4.1.2. Pandora also connects 99.9% of the time, the other .1% is easily corrected by cycling through the source inputs on the radio. LOVE this setup now, even though Crutchfield no longer carries this radio, there are alternative means to get one. I have absolutely no regrets buying this radio now!

cde-hd138bt has great sound, terrible bluetooth Pandora

Written By Rod-Man, Bossier City, LA on Sunday, April 28, 2013

rating

"Coolness Factor"

rating

Build Quality

rating

Ease of Use

rating

Sound Quality

rating

Value

I've had this radio for just about a year now, decided to give at least some credit where credit was due. I purchased this radio mainly for the Bluetooth functions, with the hands-free phone features #1 on the list. It's mostly hands free, it takes a 2-button press to actually make a call, but zero hands to answer (if you have it set up to auto answer). Awesome sound! Great mic, everyone I've spoken to says it is absolutely clear on their end. On the down side, and it's a fairly hefty downside, is Pandora via Bluetooth. What a pain. It is relatively well-documented online, and there doesn't seem to be a firmware update to try to remedy this at all (as of April, 2013). When it does connect, it is GREAT. The alternative is to connect a 3.5" cable from my phone (Samsung Admire, Gingerbread 2.3) to the aux input on the radio. Thanks, but no thanks. I also agree with other reviews, it was a bit more than I wanted to spend, but it had all the features I wanted under one roof, so I bit the bullet and took the plunge. Was it worth it? Yes, but had I known about the Pandora/BT issues, I would have chosen something else. The BT connection to play my music stored on the phone connects EVERY time, which is great, but I don't listen to it that regularly. Yes, buttons are small, time does not display unless unit it on, and you can't change the display color, but it doesn't matter to me. Overall, an excellent purchase, especially if you can live without BT Pandora.

Review

The Alpine CDE-HD138BT has many features like HD radio and SiriusXM together in on package. The sound quality is crystal clear however lacks crossover control and display options. The bright blue appearance really clashes with most vehicles and cannot be changed to a different color. The buttons are small difficult to press. The characters on the display are limited, they don't show the entire name if it is lengthy which makes the scroll feature worthless. If not for the HD radio and the high sound quality I would not own an Alpine HD138BT. There is little cool about it.

Pros:Great sound quality. Ease of installation.

Cons:The buttons are tiny to press. The display is illuminated only in bright blue, it can't be changed. Doesn't have subwoofer crossover control. The receiver is pricy.

Alpine CDE_HD138BT Car Radio

This radio met all of my needs and expectations. Everything I needed to install radio was in the kit. I did not have to purchase anything extra. Installation was no more than 1 hour. The sound quality was better than my old factory radio even with the same speakers.

Great buy

Made the stock speakers in the car sound great. 2nd one I bought for now, both cars! Fairly easy install, just wish there was a better paper manual. Not very flashy but you buy this for the music not the look. Great buy!

Pros:The sound

Cons:Limitations of a one line display, no flashy features like color changes, etc... But if you want that go to Walmart.

BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK!

All in all, great deck. A little worried of durability, seems they took a step back with the build quality of the face plate. Feels cheap. Running a HTC one s for Pandora, runs smoothly. I would say over all worth the money.

Pros:4 volt preouts make the deck
7 band eq big plus
And of coarse Bluetooth

Best Bang for the Buck

I will address 2 criticisms I have read in reviews about this unit. Firstly, audio quality. When I first powered it up, I was sick as it sounded worse than my OEM unit. Way too much bass and midrange. Playing with the basic tone controls did nothing. When I finally figured out how to access the audio setup menu (press and hold the audio button) I got into the EQ section. It looks complex at first, but for me I quickly discovered that all of the 5 bands were set to wide mode. When I was trying to adjust the treble in the basic tone controls, I was actually boosting the midrange and high bass as well. I set the 4th and 5th bands to narrow (from wide), and the effect was dramatic. Really excellent sounding. Completely different unit. That is my only real gripe with the unit ids the EQ could be a lot simplier to set up.

The second thing I read was that the display was too bright for night driving. There is a dimming function which can be set manually or automatically. No levels of brightness; just full on or dim. I set it to auto, and tried it out during daylight as well as night. It is a little brighter at night than my OEM unit, but I did not find it objectionable. I would have liked to have some other colors available other than blue and white, but it works and looks cool.

Pros:Feature rich. HD Tuner awesome. Very flexible in set up. Audio quality stunning, but you absolutely must spend a little time setting up the EQ first. Bluetooth with Droid Bionic flawless. Buttons solid with positive clicks.

Cons:A little complex at first, but after an hour or so of playing with it, it quickly becomes intuitive. EQ must be adjusted to improve sound quality, and the EQ is unnecessarily complex. Only Blue/white display color.

If you have a budget and you're trying to work in a head unit and some decent speakers, quit researching and just buy this head unit. Put in some inexpensive replacement speakers (even from Walmart, if necessary). Then later, after you've saved a little more cash, come back and get some rockin' speakers.

The unit is highly configurable and pretty much intuitive to use. It sounds great even with cheap speakers. The EQ settings make it easy to adjust the sound to fit my vehicle. I can switch over to the Graphic EQ if I want to get a little more control but the presets do just fine. HD radio comes in beautifully and I live in a fringe area (more than 50 miles away from HD transmitters). When I'm in the low-lying areas, HD goes away but reception is still spot-on. I would like to be able to adjust the HD volume separately from the analog volume,but meh.

The Bluetooth features are great! Sound quality on the phone is outstanding. People don't even realize I'm on Bluetooth and when I tell them I am talking through the radio connection they are simply amazed. Connection is a bit quirky on Pandora (with my Android) but once established it rocks on just fine. You even get all the Pandora controls through the radio (thumbs up, thumbs down, skip, change channel, etc.). You could also listen to Pandora, iHeart, or your MP3 playlist on the BT Audio as well.

I am well pleased and may even be a complete Alpine loyalist from now on!

Pros:Sound Quality
Power
Easily Configured
Bluetooth

Cons:Unable to adjust HD radio volume independently of analog radio volume
Doesn't come with every car you buy.

Wow!!!

Written By Bozman, WA on Thursday, January 10, 2013

"Coolness Factor"

Build Quality

Ease of Use

Sound Quality

Value

It was time to upgrade, so I picked up this badboy after a couple months of research. I can't stand low quality sound. With today's toys it seems that bluetooth, Mp3, etc is the thing but I still wanted to play a CD. Of course there is a monsterous difference between the 2 in SQ. Alpine did a very good job in fixing that. It doesn't matter what's played, it all sounds pretty good. My old head unit was 8 years old so being able to pair my S3 with the head unit was a huge plus for me. No strings attached!!! Works awesome!!!! I run external amps as well. All the adjustability is there that you need. High pas, low pass, sub control functions work very well. The EQ will take some time to dial in but it's well worth it. Some reviews didn't like that, but with an audiophile type head unit, I'm not sure what they expected. A very wide variety of options await you during this process to either take it to the next level, or just tweek some problem areas. I love that you can set 6 preset EQ set ups as well. I've yet to have any issues with the bluetooth and probably won't use it to its "full" potential so my thoughts on that are very limited. Overall, this is an excellent choice if you are looking for a higher end head unit. No too pricey but also not made cheap. Sometimes you get what you pay for and I can say that for what I paid, it has been worth every penny thus far.

I really wanted to like this unit.

The Alpine HU has lots of nice features that I really wanted, like built in Bluetooth, USB audio, HD radio. All of these features worked well and were easy to setup. I really liked having them, however there were some very significant drawbacks to the unit that were deal breakers to me, ultimately causing me to return it: 1) Not compatible with my car's dimmer circuit. The unit's illumination is either "on" or "really on" and both settings were distracting at night. 2) The pre-amp outputs didn't integrate into my car's factory Bose amplifier very well. This is partly because the Bose amplifier inputs in my car require a differential (balanced) input, but the HU does not provide this option. It also was very susceptible to alternator noise. I eventually solved both problems by purchasing additional components. 3) Whenever changing audio sources, radio stations or even tracks, the HU produces a very loud and annoying "thump". 4) I could have lived with the drawbacks above but in the end this unit did not sound as good as the 15 year old factory radio that it replaced, despite 2 weeks of fiddling with EQ settings. It might be a good unit for a complete rebuild including new amps and a dedicated sub, but I'm not doing that.

Cons:Visability is not great, and punching the small buttons is cumbersome, but granted I am used to an OEM with large dials etc. Clock does not show time unless unit is on...did I not wire it correctly?, possible I guess. Overall, I like it. I bought a $55 clock to mount on dash.

Excellent Receiver and great price

It is really a nice unit and given how much I paid for the last receiver I purchased - maybe 20 years ago - it is an unbelievably low price for all that it offers. You can figure out much by just playing around with it. The manual that comes with it only covers some of the various things you will want to do, but there is a more detailed owner's manual on CD. Of course, if you want to actually try some of the things that you read about on the CD, you'll have to make notes, print it out, or bring a laptop into the car with you. Having an HD tuner in the car is amazing. It is absolutely free of static. If you are listening to news broadcasts, it is like having the anchor in the car with you. Same for the bluetooth capability and phone calls. Crystal clear.

Pros:HD, bluetooth, USB, CD, ease of use, color and styling

Cons:You can't have everything, but if there was one thing I would cite as a con it would be the knob and the fact that it is in the wrong place. It is used for many things and when used, you end up blocking the display with your hand. This might not be a problem if the unit is installed low in your dash, but if it is pretty high up your line of site is likely to be obscured.

Alpine makes great stuff

Since I replaced a CDE-102 with this unit in my 2005 Subaru Outback, install was just a matter of unplugging and replugging. And adding the mic. I already have an Alpine KTP-445U "Power Pack" and Alpine speakers. It's all Alpine and it sounds great.

Pros:Bluetooth was not a problem with my droid. I was glad for that, because that is why I upgraded from the CDE-102.

Cons:Not really a con, but my lighting in the car is red and the Alpine is blue. Would have been nice, but I don't really have a problem with it.

Heck of a start!

This is really my first higher end receiver, but it definitely suits my needs. Since this is only the beginning device of what is soon to be part of hopefully a amazing sound system in my car, I am already anxious to build a rolling live concert! Right of the bat, the blue tooth feature was welcomed, I use a samsung galaxy 1 and the BT works fine with it..(someone else said it only synced with their I-phone) although the aux. and USB ports also come in handy when BT is not available on whatever external devices im using. Im not a fan of all sort of crazy features and this receiver is more my style..not too fancy, but definitely doesnt lack. i currently only have factory Infinity speakers in my car...i could tell the difference without even adjusting anything!...Im no sound pro so i cant say its the best for adjusting sound quality in itself, but as i was told by my installer that this puppy is totally capable of performing well in all environments and sound levels...Honestly the Sirius XM being included was my main draw, being that it was in a single DIN receiver. so as far as regular every day use goes i would surely say buy it if you are looking to spend this much!...this was a mumbled mess of a review, but im just saying i LOVE this thing!

Cons:don't know how it works for the droid, but the blue tooth will only sync with the iphone, you cant control the phone from the head (with music) like you can with a usb connection. also no data is displayed from BT iphone such as artist, album etc. everything must be controlled from your iphone, in most states being on your phone is illegal

Alpine delivers as expected

I am happy with my purchase of the Alpine CDE-HD138BT. This was a replacement for my factory Monsoon HU that I have lived with the past twelve years in my 2000 VW Jetta TDI. Crutchfield made the transition very easy with adapter wiring and antenna harnesses along with crystal clear instructions. This unit has very intuitive controls, and something for everyone, from the novice to advanced user. One thing I particularly enjoy is the blue tooth audio streaming feature. It takes less than ten seconds for my phone to be detected by the HU when I get into my car. I use Google Play to stream my audio collection and it works perfectly with the blue tooth streaming. I can even pause and skip forward/back from the HU without even touching my phone. Before I purchased this HU, I read as many of the reviews that I could find both positive and negative. I have to say, I haven't found any validity to the negative reviews and can only speak to my positive experience. My only advice would be to do your homework and see if it will meet your needs before you purchase. I have always had people rave about my old factory system and this beats it hands down. The fidelity of this unit is impressive and really breathed new life into my much loved TDI. Thanks Alpine for a great product and of course Crutchfield.

Pros:Price for what you get in return: An attractive high fidelity HU, well thought out menu's and controls, blue tooth audio streaming and phone connection, pandora, audio tweakablity to get just the right sound, scalability, ease of use.

It's an Alpine! You buy one simply for the great sound!

Written By Southernreign, Charlotte, NC on Thursday, November 22, 2012

"Coolness Factor"

Build Quality

Ease of Use

Sound Quality

Value

I bought this for my 2010 Corolla S which had a painful stock non-JBL sound system. My upgrade process has been slow and painful. I originally first upgraded the 6 speakers to a four speaker Infinity speaker Kappa system. (left the tweeters out) Great improvement, but bass was good and purereally lacking. I left the stock HUD and was able to play the radio MAX out with occassional clipping (NOT GOOD), I then decided to spend ALOT of time custom wiring a Alpine 300 amp to the stock radio. It sounded much better, bass was much better, still missing something. Now I could clearly hear the unclean sound the AMP was producing. I looked into all different type of radio, single din and double. I ended up choosing this for ALL the features it included, The main thing was its ability to play different types of music files. When I kicked this on. WOW! The sound was great! What a difference. It is amazing what a difference the HD radio makes too. It really increases the frequency range and stereo separation. There is SOOOOO much I have yet to learn to do with this. The Kappa speakers REALLY REALLY REALLY rock. People complain about the lack of bass. I see why... but, add an AMP, and they come alive like you can not believe! You can acually feel the air move in the car from the bass! I am very happy with this radio... I think if I were to do it again, I would buy the higher end double din touch screen Alpine without the GPS though. All that said, I am a happy camper with my purchase.

Pros:Sounds is pure and natural. Lots of ways to customize

Cons:Not the best looking radio. I like the ALPINE multimedia player's look better. Menu is really hard to get use to. Buttons are small. Can not change Alpine display color. Blue is only choice

Elated

Just what we've come to expect from Alpine over the years. I replaced a new model Kenwood that had severe Bluetooth issues with this Alpine and I wish I had bought this first. The menu is a little tricky but that's to be expected with all of the adjustable parameters this unit has in regards to sound.

If you have an iPhone, look for a different unit

Written By sdBill, San Diego on Friday, August 31, 2012

"Coolness Factor"

Build Quality

Ease of Use

Sound Quality

Value

Time to start looking at other manufacturers. This is the third Alpine unit I've owned and although they make a good product, they always seem to fall short of offering a truly great product. Last year's models had the USB connection in the rear or the unis, which allowed for wiring a remote USB connection where USB devices could be kept out of sight. This year, the USB connection is in the front of the unit, which is convenient, but why not offer both? This unit offers a lot of options for audio sources, HD Radio, Disk, iPod, Pandora, Bluetooth Audio, satellite, etc. However, I only use three of these yet I have to navigate through the entire array to get from iPod to HD radio. How about letting me disable what I don't use. OK, enough whining. My biggest beef with this unit is that the iPhone interface blows! I can't speak to the Droid interface since I haven't ventured down that path...yet. iPod/iPhone functionality is intermittent at best. When I'm connected through USB everything works fine until I turn off the ignition. When I turn it back on, the iPhone plays for second then goes silent. I have the unplug the USB and plug it back in to get it working again. Bluetooth will work fine for a week or so then I get a 'NO UNIT' message and have to re-pair the device. Finally, when the unit is powered down and the ignition is on and I try to make a phone call, the unit wakes up and forces me to use hands free.

Pros:Easy to install. Provides a lot of flexibility in audio settings.

Cons:Bluetooth intermittently disconnects and and must be re-paired with iPhone. Even after pairing the hands free phone works, but no Bluetooth audio. When using USB, iPhone

I love this unit!

I'll keep this short and and sweet. This unit does everything and very well. It's pretty easy to use (especially if you at least briefly skim the manual.) I love this receiver and it does almost everything I wanted and well.

Some of my favorite features: Bluetooth streaming audio audio and calling from the iPhone 4S The hands free mic is VERY good and clear. Plays MP3s (WMA, and AAC) directly from a USB thumb drive.

Features I don't:: This doesn't have a "loudness" setting.. I wanted this specifically for low volume listening. It includes graphic and parametric equalizers which is probably the reason Loudness was excluded, but would have liked the convenience of a simple "loudness" setting.

I'm not using an amp, and I'm using 4 Alpine speakers. I'm considering adding a Alpine KTP-445U "Power Pack" for better speaker performance at low volumes though with the standard receiver's power the performance is still great especially at higher volumes.

Pros:Does everything, sounds amazing.

Cons:No "loudness" setting, but has parametric and graphic equalizers.

Sweet

As always Alpine does not dissapoint Just installed it yesterday. Head unit works awesome music sounds clean and the bluetooth is crystal clear probably one of the best Alpine decks i've owned. Had a little trouble with the steering wheel installation but called Crutchfield tech support at like 8:00 am and tech support took care of me. If the government ran this country the way Crutchfield runs there business we would be the envy of the world again.

Pros:Everything Alpine is the Best.

Cons:My only peeve is the brightness of the deck Alpine why dont you add that blackout display mode on all your decks Seriously. Don't any of your product testers sit in the labs and test these displays for night driving ?

Alpine Stereo Receiver

I would recommend this receiver to anyone, was very easy to install with the items crutchfield sent, sounds real nice, a little trickie on setup, instruction book not very clear but over all I figure it out, would buy this item again, blue tooth works very well easy to use, HD Radio tuner is great, Sirius/Xm install easy,

Alpine CDE-138HDBT

I have to say this is probably one of the best or is the best HU Ive owned. I've own: Kenwood KIV-BT901 Parrot Asteroid Alpine CDE-123 Kenwood Excelon KDE-X996 JVC Arsenal KD-A95BT JVC Kameleon Pioneer MVH-P7300 Pioneer MVH- P8300BT The point is this is the first HU. I have actually written a review about. The HU has amazing features with the Bluetooth streaming. It's easy to connect. I'm using an IPhone 4s. Bring it right up and sync as soon as i get in the truck. Yes it may take a second to sync, but which HU out there doesn't. The brightness has been the same for the past couple years now with alpine. You can change it but it doesn't really help much. I think personal it add to the overall appearance of the HU. The "MX" feature with Bluetooth increase the sound quality of the stream with 3 different opinion, and a 4th custom opinion to tune the way you like. The Subwoofer Feature with the 4 volt Pre-out gives my Sub a great range of tuning. Ive used an SMD DD-1 on the HU it doesn't clip at all 35/35. Also the HU has easy pre-set radio station and the HD radio works Great. Even thou i barely use to lol. The Pandora radio app work great with a thumps up, and thumps down button on the HU it self. Only bad thing I can think of it the one line display, but hey press on button and see the time and anything else. Alot of people say its hard to get use to the controls of the radio or navigating through the features.

Pros:No. It's just like anything else you have to get use to it. One of the thinks i really liked about it was in my truck i have a small Radio space so there isn't much room for air flow to cool the HU, But the Alpine has a built in cooling Fan. With really help, cause i have had several HU from Top brand name companies burn up
All In All i think it a great HU.

Cons:Has every feature you can think of, with the top of the line quality. The HU look great in any vehicle. Ive had several compliments on it. All the feature do as they are suppose to, and work great. If your wanting to use Bluetooth like i was looking for. This HU is the way to go. The Bluetooth streaming is amazing. Along with all the tuning features just under the Bluetooth settings
DEFINITELY recommend to a friend.

Alpine CDE-HD138BT

This unit blows away anything else in it's price range and most units that are more expensive. Audio quality is awesome and the BT phone feature worked perfectly right out of the box in my F250 Diesel. No audio adjustment needed. Very impressive.

Alpine hd138bt

I love this HU and the fact that I can control my iPhone from the phone or the HU. No issue with the sound quality, and HD radio is HD radio...your location and environment is going to determine your signal strength. I have no need for alternate colors, but Alpine really needs to work on their "ease of use". It is very difficult to manage through all of the menus and settings. I like that there are separate settings for each device, and that you can shut off the device menus that you don't use, but come on....no permanent clock in view? The BT phone feature works extremely well, and again, the separate settings for devices comes in handy here. You can manage the volume of the phone conversation and ringtone separately from each other and from say your iPod music! Overall I love this HU and would buy it again, but be warned. You have some studying to do before you will be able to use it to it's full potential.

Pros:individual settings for each connected device, BT phone and streaming sound terrific, connects quickly to phone ...faster than 30 sec for me, almost instantly, SQ is Alpine standard, Like having the HD tuner imbedded, though I don't get a lot in my area, when I do, it sounds amazing though.

Cons:cycling through ipod/iphone listings is a pain, phone book is a pain (though better if you use the preset favorites), menus in general are a pain to use. The display info is too restrictive. At least have the clock always present, but really, we should at least get a scroll of artist, album song, if they aren't all going to be visible at the same time. At least that would eliminate the need to keep hitting the view button 10 times!

I wanted to love it...

Being a long time Alpine fan I didn't hesitate to go with my trusted brand when it came time for a new HU. My primary needs are BT audio and XM radio, both of which work flawlessly. I'm glad to have the USB input (rear would have been nice) & Aux input but I haven't tried either. The HU pairs with my phone (Samsung Galaxy Nexus) within 30 seconds of powering up and the controls for BT streaming work quickly and smoothly. The XM controls have improved from past, so I was glad to see that. Also the footprint of the new sat tuner is much smaller making installation easier. I tested the Pandora controls briefly but they seemed clumsy. I didn't bother trying again (seems easier to play Pandora through BT streaming) so take that FWIW. The HU controls & menus seem a more refined than past units, though the awkwardness of exploring settings on an Alpine is still present. The sound quality is great. I'm not longer running components and subs (OK, I'm running stock speakers) but there is still a vast improvement. I kind of wish I hadn't sold the rests of my system so I could hear what this HU can really crank out. So why don't I love it? See my cons. The display options and button colors are complete deal breakers. My Altima has orange dash lighting and no separate clock. It drives me crazy to push neon blue buttons while I'm cycling through the song title and the current time. For the price I shouldn't have to settle for these minor annoyances so it's most likely going back.

Pros:-BT audio works great, sounds good through stock speakers.
-XM radio works great, more control options than in the past.
-BT calls sound good on both ends of the line.Voice dialing is your best option, getting through the phone book isn't easy.
-Build quality is solid, buttons have a nice feel.
-Overall it's a nice unit but its missing some elementary things that should be present at this price.

Cons:-Info display: there is a single line, that is all. You can't see artist/song title & the clock side by side. Choose one or the other. That's a big deal breaker when your car doesn't have a separate clock. My older Alpine units always had multi line displays with several different views.
-Buttons: neon blue, that's your only choice. Come on Alpine, why did you get rid of the custom button colors? It's been an option on all of my past units, you could have at least gone neutral on the color.

Alpine CDE-HD138BT

Well worth the long wait. By far the easiest unit I have operated. The owners manual will never be touched. The sound is quite bright, but some minor tweaking even it all out. Bluetooth is blazing fast for audio stored on phone or Pandora. USB on front will keep my from ever using another disc! Can't believe its the top model and under $300.

Alpine hd138bt to replace kenwood kdc bt948hd

Written By Tony, Anaheim Ca on Friday, April 13, 2012

"Coolness Factor"

Build Quality

Ease of Use

Sound Quality

Value

I have been using this unit for a week with the bluethtooth, HD radio , streaming music through bluethtooth and its been fantastic. I dont know what the user below is complaining about the sound configuration is easy and sounds great and he should know all HD radios have to adjust because the HD signal is not everywhere, he must work for kenwood haha. I bought this alpine unit to replace my kenwood kdc bt948hd-which doesnt stream music through bluethtooth and had the worst radio preset system. Buying this alpine was a great choice excellent biuld quality. Im using it with polk mm6501 components and an alpine f300 amp, great sound!

Awesome Bluetooth

Written By Cougfan, Seattle Wa on Thursday, April 12, 2012

"Coolness Factor"

Build Quality

Ease of Use

Sound Quality

Value

Put this in my SUV and the 10 stock speaker sound like aftermarket. The bluetooth feature works so well I dont need to plug into the USB. I have never had a drop in reception yet but have yet to road trip through the mountains. Couldnt be happier sound.

Alpine CDE-HD138BT

Just replaced a kenwood x595 for this at 2 times the price . hated the dumb joystick and radio was worthless on the kenwood also would shut off on its own . Finally got the new alpine and does not even match the SQ of the Kenwood . The low and midrange are not even there , the highs are very bright . The EQ is a pain and sounds better without it on , The bright blue light does not match 75% of all vehicles on the road . HD radio goes in and out , it's useless ! The only thing i like is the build quality and rubber coated volume contorl . I am buying the New Kenwood X596 much better then the x595 .

Pros:Build quality

Cons:too much to list , not worth the high price tag for the name Alpine .

Great high-end receiver

I've waited WEEKS for this model! I bought this head unit on March 24th, and it arrived just 3 days later! Crutchfield supplied a *perfect* dash kit for my Corolla S, and a nice wiring harness as well. I've installed a few aftermarket stereos in the past, and the install for this puppy was a breeze.

The long microphone cord was a life-saver when wiring up the hands-free kit behind the dash and up the sail panel. I realized my phone callers were saying my voice was too quiet, but I easily found a function to increase the MIC gain to +4. The bluetooth A2DP streaming works great with my WP7 smartphone. It sounds much better than I was expecting, and I actually couldn't tell that I wasn't playing a CD. The wireless streaming helps keep the cabin looking nice and tidy. The 4V pre-amp outputs will be sure to push a nice clean signal to my amplifier, and I really love the HD radio features too! I haven't tried the Bluetooth Pandora connection with my Blackberry yet, but I'm sure it will work well.

The interface is extremely intuitive, and I haven't even had to crack the owner's manual yet. I'm really curious to see how smoothly it can handle bouncing between the various bluetooth functions with all of my paired devices.

I have no complaints about this unit so far. I have a whole list full of tests that I want to run it through, so I'll update my post in a few weeks. A+ for Alpine, and Kudos to Crutchfield for making this a smooth experience!